Surrey Greens welcome Tory U-turn on tip closures

Green County Councillor Jonathan Essex has welcomed the decision by the Conservatives in Surrey to drop their plans to close four Community Recycling Centres (CRCs). The change of heart happened after huge opposition from thousands of Surrey residents.

The County Council will, however, proceed with its plans to reduce the opening hours of CRCs across the county, as well as to drop the daily free waste allowance for residents. The proposals will be confirmed at the Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 26 September.

Cllr Jonathan Essex said:

“It is good news that the four recycling centres will remain open but the Conservatives should also cancel their plans to increase charges and reduce the opening hours of CRCs across Surrey. These plans could affect Surrey’s ability to increase its recycling rate and meet its target of 70%.

“Many residents replying to the consultation were concerned that the changes could increase fly-tipping. At the recent committee meeting, many councillors expressed concerns about fly-tipping and the County Council’s reporting of it, which many believe to be incomplete.

“I hope that the Conservative Cabinet’s plans “to make savings elsewhere” means that they intend to commit real resources to a proper plan to accelerate recycling rates. Greater segregation of waste and participation in recycling across Surrey, at CRCs and at the doorstep are vital, – for example many flats across Surrey still do not have the basic level of recycling collection offered to the rest of our residents.

“I call upon the Conservative Cabinet to think again, listen to the thousands of residents who have made their voices loud and clear, and drop these ill-thought-out proposals to increase charges and reduce CRC opening hours”.